Alpha Arbutin and Niacinamide: The Perfect Combo for a Flawless Skin
People always want to look their best. In this age of selfies and Instagram, it’s not surprising how much importance we give to how we look. Having a flawless skin is the first step towards a beautiful appearance. But achieving that perfect skin isn’t always easy and it takes a little planning and effort.
With some natural products, coupled with the power of science and technology, you too can have a glowing skin in no time. Alpha arbutin and niacinamide are two skincare ingredients that are proven to help improve your complexion and reduce visible signs of aging.
They are both brilliant stand-alone solutions to address specific skincare concerns and they also work amazingly well together as an awesome team.
Our Brightening & Discoloration Correction Face Cream is the perfect product which combines alpha arbutin and niacinamide - along with a long list of additional active ingredients to correct discoloration.
Arbutin: The Natural Alternative to Brighten Skin
Arbutin is a naturally occurring compound found in certain plants like bearberry, blueberry, cranberry, and wheat. It is also produced by certain species of mushrooms. While the name may sound familiar, it’s not the same as the beta hydroxy acid (BHA) or retinol that you might be used to hearing about in skincare products.
Arbutin is a proven natural alternative that can be used to brighten the skin and fade away dark spots. But how does it work? Well, Arbutin works to fade acne scars and pigmentation by inhibiting the production of the enzyme tyrosine. This enzyme converts the amino acid tyrosine into melanin, the pigment responsible for skin discoloration, freckles, and dark spots.
The main thing to remember about arbutin is that it works not only to prevent the production of melanin, but also to fade existing discoloration (sun spots, scarring, etc.). In fact, when arbutin is applied topically, it is converted into hydroquinone, the gold standard for fading dark spots, by the enzymes in the skin. This is where niacinamide comes in.
Niacinamide: The Lightening Agent
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that is used in a wide variety of cosmetics and skincare products. It is an effective lightening agent that is used to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It is also known to be an anti-aging agent that reduces wrinkles and fine lines.
Niacinamide is a popular skincare ingredient used in anti-aging serums, moisturizers, and night creams to address a wide variety of skincare concerns such as pigmentation, dullness, and an uneven skin tone. Niacinamide is a great natural alternative to hydroquinone, which is the main active ingredient in most synthetic skin lightening products.
Hydroquinone can cause severe side effects when used for an extended period of time. It can lead to ochronosis, a permanent blue-black pigmentation of the skin that requires a skin graft to remove. So, niacinamide is a very safe and effective alternative to hydroquinone.
Can I Use Arbutin and Niacinamide Together?
When you use arbutin and niacinamide together, they work synergistically to produce better and faster results.
Arbutin inhibits the production of melanin and niacinamide reduces its accumulation in the skin.
Together, they are a perfect combination to fade away dark spots, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
Arbutin: Arbutin inhibits the production of melanin and prevents it from reaching the surface of the skin. When applied topically, it is converted into hydroquinone by the enzymes present in the skin, thereby reducing dark spots, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
Niacinamide: Niacinamide reduces the amount of melanin in the skin by increasing the rate of its destruction. It also has a mild bleaching effect on the skin.
Our Brightening & Discoloration Correction Face Cream is the perfect product which combines alpha arbutin and niacinamide - along with a long list of additional active ingredients to correct discoloration.
How Does Arbutin Work?
Arbutin is a natural hydroquinone alternative that inhibits the production of melanin. It is applied topically and is converted into hydroquinone by the enzymes present in the skin. This inhibits the production of melanin and prevents it from reaching the surface of the skin. When applied on the skin, arbutin is converted into hydroquinone, the gold standard for fading dark spots. Hydroquinone is a very effective pigment inhibitor, but it is also a very harsh and toxic chemical. Arbutin is a natural and mild alternative to hydroquinone.
Arbutin also has photoprotective properties, and it’s been shown to actually protect skin against UV-induced erythema and DNA damage.
How Does Niacinamide Work?
Niacinamide slows down the rate at which melanin is produced. It also increases the rate at which it is broken down, which means less melanin is formed and less of it is retained in the skin. This results in a reduction in skin pigmentation and sun damage.
Niacinamide has a lightening effect on the skin, and it has been shown to reduce skin pigmentation when applied topically.
It is a great natural alternative to hydroquinone, which is the main active ingredient in most synthetic skin lightening products. Hydroquinone can cause severe side effects when used for an extended period of time. It can lead to ochronosis, a permanent blue-black pigmentation of the skin that requires a skin graft to remove.
Niacinamide is a very safe and effective alternative to hydroquinone.
How to Use Alpha Arbutin and Niacinamide
In the realm of skincare, combining effective ingredients can yield significantly improved results. Understanding how to use Arbutin and Niacinamide together can help maximize their synergistic benefits for a more radiant and even-toned complexion.
Arbutin, a derivative of hydroquinone, is renowned for its ability to inhibit melanin production, thereby reducing hyperpigmentation and dark spots. On the other hand,
Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a versatile ingredient that offers multiple skin benefits, including improving the skin barrier, reducing inflammation, and minimizing the appearance of pores. When used in tandem, these two ingredients can offer a powerhouse solution for various skin concerns.
To effectively integrate Arbutin and Niacinamide into your skincare routine, it is essential to understand the proper sequence and concentration. Begin by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and prepare your skin for treatment.
There are various products that include alpha arbutin and/or niacinamide, that you can use throughout your entire skin care routine. Our Fresh Start Cleansing Cream includes niacinamide and is an excellent choice for all skin types. Our Brightening & Discoloration Correction Cream includes both arbutin and niacinamide.
It's important to note that both Arbutin and Niacinamide are generally well-tolerated by most skin types; however, it's always prudent to conduct a patch test before incorporating new products into your routine. Start with lower concentrations to gauge your skin's reaction and gradually increase as tolerated.
Additionally, using these ingredients in conjunction with mineral sunscreen during the day is crucial, as they can make your skin more susceptible to UV damage. In summary, understanding how to use Arbutin and Niacinamide together involves strategic layering and patience. By starting with a clean face, applying Arbutin first, and following up with Niacinamide, you can effectively target hyperpigmentation while simultaneously enhancing overall skin health.
This combination not only addresses specific concerns but also contributes to a smoother, more luminous complexion.
Our Brightening & Discoloration Correction Face Cream is the perfect product which combines alpha arbutin and niacinamide - along with a long list of additional active ingredients to correct discoloration:
The Bottom Line
Arbutin and niacinamide are two brilliant skincare ingredients known for their skin lightening properties. They work best when used together, as they inhibit the production of melanin and increase its breakdown. When they are used together, they produce faster and better results than when used alone. These two ingredients make a great team, and they will give you the flawless skin you desire. Our Brightening and Discoloration Correction Face Cream includes alpha arbutin and niacinamide for optimal effectiveness, and shipping is always free in the US.
